Ebike pedal assist speed limits

Many in my cycling sphere have had n+1 come in the form of an ebike, but usually an eMTB - road bikes are creeping in slowly. During the course of some discussions, the question of how the arbitrary 25kph speed limit was arrived at, particularly for eMTB's that usually aren't on public roads.

Some conspiracy theories have been raised about the motoring lobby not wanting ebikes allowed to do higher speeds because it may attract more people away from cars.

One theory put forward was that bike brakes were not good enough to be effective at higher speeds. This is generally complete b/s as an unassisted cyclist often exceeds 25kph without too much effort. My best was with loaded touring gear on a downhill where I hit 75kph. I'd have lost a bit of bark if I'd hit the dirt!

I know from my o/s trips that these bikes are taking off everywhere, and pedal assist speed limits of 25kph don't seem to be an issue.

Can anyone shed any light on the arguments and reasons used for setting this limit so low? Imagine their increased usage if it was increased to, say 35kph!

I wasn't aware of a speed limit as such, but the output of a pedelec is restricted to 250W and the motor is required to cut out at 25km/h or less if the rider stops pedalling. I infer that you can travel faster then 25km/h if you can pedal that hard without the motor assisting you. Usually these bikes are pretty heavy.

The attached PDF as info on the various classes of bike. Mikesbytes is on the money in reference t the EU standard.

The restriction is 250W continuous, most manufacturers exploit that to push out at least 350W when it is needed. You don't Need 250W on the flat.

Weight doesn't affect Speed on the flat, rolling and air resistance do. So, with the Right tyres you can hoof along without assistance. This of Course allows the averaging in the Computer that is meant to give you 250W to go nuts and give you full wellie uphill.